MTRS offers retirement information programs

The Massachusetts Teachers' Retirement System and its staff have announced two retirement programs that are scheduled to take place at various locations across the state

The programs are:

Your MTRS Benefits: for all members interested in learning more about the MTRS retirement plan and benefits, and

The Next Chapter: an all-day retirement planning program for members five to 15 years from retirement.

The details on both programs are below; space is limited, and registration is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Online registration is required for all of these programs and is available at http://mass.gov/mtrs.

Your MTRS Benefits

Your MTRS Benefits is an optional, free, two-hour (4-6 p.m.) informal program for any member who wants more information about MTRS retirement benefits&mdash;whether you are a new member, mid-career educator or soon-to-be retiree.

Topics include:

the benefits provided under the MTRS plan

purchasing creditable service

estimating your retirement benefits under the regular and RetirementPlus formulas

various issues you need to consider in retirement, including health insurance coverage, taxation of your retirement benefit, the rules on working after retirement, Social Security&mdash;and more!

The Next Chapter

The Next Chapter is an award-winning retirement planning program for members who are five to 15 years from retirement, but for any educators working on a retirement plan. Members are encouraged to bring their spouse or companion.

This all day, comprehensive retirement planning program features expert speakers who address many retirement issues, including:

Financial planning

Estate planning

Social Security and Medicare for the Massachusetts educator

Your MTRS Benefits

Registration info:

MARLBOROUGH BEST WESTERN HOTEL, Saturday, May 9, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Registration fee: $35 per person, which includes a continental breakfast, lunch and refreshments. Space is limited, and registration will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.